The gift of peace does not come from this world or its systems but from Jesus Christ, the author, and finisher of our faith. During times of uncertainty, even as believers, it’s easy to forget or be distracted away from the true source of our peace. In John 14, the disciples are in a time of uncertainty because Jesus starts by saying, “Let not your hearts be troubled.” He speaks directly at the fear (or trouble) that was gripping their hearts and says trust in Me and my Father. Another word for trust is to expect. Can you say in this time of uncertainty that you are expecting or trusting God to see you through? Let Jesus speak directly at your worry, anxiety, and troubled heart. We should be comforted by Jesus’ words to trust in Him for that is the first step to finding peace.
In verse 26, Jesus reminds the disciples that He is sending the comforter, the Holy Spirit. According to Jesus, the Holy Spirit will teach you and remind you of what Jesus had spoken. Let’s ask the Holy Spirit, living in us, to remind us of what Jesus said. 2 Corinthians 5:7 reminds us that we walk by faith and not by sight. We should not let what we see and what we hear from a world system reduce our faith in what we know. That is why the Holy Spirit is there to remind us what we know the Word of God says about Jesus.
Lastly, Jesus says, “I’m leaving you with a peace of mind and heart. Here it is a gift, take it.” This gift of peace is what we must accept in times of uncertainty. This gift of peace only comes from Jesus and him alone. The great thing about gifts is that we can simply reach out in faith and accept it. Jesus then reminds us in the first verse of this chapter of what peace looks like, “Don’t let your heart be trouble or afraid.”
We are praying for all of our nation’s leaders, as well as the first responders, nurses, and doctors at this time. We are praying for those who have been affected by this virus across the world. We will continue to pray for our pastors and churches across Southern California District for wisdom and direction on how to navigate this time of uncertainty. We pray that God will intervene with his mighty hand and that the church of Jesus Christ will be glorified.
T.J. Skiles
District Youth Director (DYD)
TRUTH - WHAT DOES GOD SAY?
John 14:26 But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.
John 14:27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
RESPOND
We’d love to hear how God is helping you find peace in the midst of the chaos. Comment below!